Nazca - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Nazca

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nazca, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nazca and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nazca, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Nazca for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nazca

Nazca is a small town located in the desert region of southern Peru. It is famous for the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor, which depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes. The Lines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are believed to have been created by the Nazca culture between 500 BC and 500 AD. Nazca is also known for its rich archaeological heritage, with numerous ruins and artifacts from ancient civilizations in the area. The town itself has a charming colonial historic center and is a popular destination for tourists exploring southern Peru.

What to visit in Nazca

1. Nazca Lines: The Nazca Lines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Nazca Desert. They consist of hundreds of ancient geoglyphs ranging from simple lines and geometric shapes to intricate depictions of animals and humans. The lines were created between 500 BC and 500 AD, and their purpose is still a mystery.
2. Chauchilla Cemetery: The Chauchilla Cemetery is an ancient burial ground that was used by the Nazca culture between 200 and 900 AD. The mummies and skeletons found here are incredibly well-preserved due to the dry climate of the area.
3. Cantalloc Aqueduct: The Cantalloc Aqueduct is a series of underground channels that were built by the Nazca culture to bring water from the Andes Mountains to the desert. There are over 40 aqueducts in the area, and some are still in use today.
4. Antonini Museum: The Antonini Museum is a small museum in Nazca that houses a collection of Nazca artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and mummies. It also has a replica of a tomb from the Chauchilla Cemetery.
5. El Mirador: El Mirador is a viewpoint located just outside of Nazca that offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. It is a popular spot for watching the sunset.
6. Maria Reiche Planetarium: The Maria Reiche Planetarium is dedicated to the German mathematician and archaeologist who spent decades studying the Nazca Lines. The planetarium offers a multimedia presentation about the lines and their possible meaning.
7. Aqueduct of the Cantalloc Pueblo: The Aqueduct of the Cantalloc Pueblo is a unique attraction that allows visitors to explore ancient underground tunnels. The tunnels were built by the Nazca culture over 1,500 years ago and were used to transport water to their crops and homes.
8. Ceramic Studio: There are several ceramic studios in Nazca where visitors can see how pottery is made and purchase handmade souvenirs. The pottery typically features Nazca designs and images of the Nazca Lines.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nazca.

When to go on holiday to Nazca

The best time to go on holiday to Nazca in Peru is from May to November. It is usually dry and sunny with warm daytime temperatures during these months. This period also coincides with the peak tourist season in Peru, which means that there are more options for tours and accommodations.
However, it is important to keep in mind that Nazca is located in the desert, so temperatures can be hot and dry throughout the year. From December to April, there is a higher chance of rain and cooler temperatures, but this is also the time when the desert blooms with vegetation and flowers, making it a unique and beautiful sight to see. Ultimately, the best time to visit Nazca depends on your preferred activities and what kind of experience you want to have.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nazca

There are a few ways to get to Nazca, Peru. Here are some options: 1. By plane: You can fly to Nazca from Lima with small airlines such as AeroNasca or Ica Airlines. The flight takes around 1 hour.
2. By bus: Nazca is located about 5-6 hours south of Lima by bus. You can take a bus from Lima's main bus terminal (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, or Civa) or from the bus terminal in the town of Ica.
3. By private car or tour: You can also hire a private car or take a organized tour from Lima or nearby towns such as Ica and Paracas. This option is more expensive but it offers more flexibility and comfort.
Once you arrive in Nazca, you can visit its famous Nazca Lines or explore nearby attractions such as the Chauchilla Cemetery or the Aqueducts of Cantalloc.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nazca, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nazca

Nazca is a city located in southern Peru, known for its ancient culture and stunning landscape. Here are some typical foods that you can try when visiting Nazca: 1. Cuy: Cuy is a traditional Peruvian dish made of guinea pig. In Nazca, it's often served roasted with potatoes and corn.
2. Rocoto Relleno: Rocoto Relleno is a spicy-stuffed pepper dish from Arequipa that is also widely popular in Nazca. The pepper is stuffed with meat, onion, tomato, garlic, cheese, and boiled egg.
3. Aji de Gallina: Aji de Gallina is a creamy, spicy chicken dish in a yellow sauce made of aji amarillo. This delicious and popular dish is usually served with boiled potatoes or rice.
4. Seco de Res: Seco de Res is a popular Peruvian beef stew that is slow-cooked with cilantro, garlic, and beer. It's often served with rice and green beans.
5. Pisco Sour: Pisco Sour is a classic Peruvian cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white. It's a must-try drink when visiting Nazca. 6. Chicha: Chicha is a traditional Peruvian drink made of fermented corn. This refreshing and sweet drink is often enjoyed with a meal or as a snack.
7. Lomo Saltado: Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian dish made with sauteed strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. It's often served with rice.
These are just a few examples of the delicious foods and drinks that you can try while visiting Nazca.
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Nazca an expensive destination for tourists?

Nazca can be considered a moderate to expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and tours can be higher than other cities in the region. However, there are budget-friendly options available with some research and planning. It's also worth noting that the cost of a tour to see the famous Nazca lines by plane is relatively expensive, so budget-conscious travelers may want to consider seeing them from the observation tower or visiting the nearby Chauchilla Cemetery instead.

Where to find accomodation in Nazca

It is best to find accommodation in the town of Nazca itself in order to have easy access to the Nazca Lines, which are located a few kilometers outside of the town. There are a variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Nazca, ranging from budget options to more expensive hotels. Other popular areas to stay in the region include nearby towns such as Puquio, Chalhuanca, and Abancay, which offer a more rural and authentic Peruvian experience, but are located further away from the Nazca Lines.
You can check hotel prices at Nazca here:
Booking.com

Is Nazca a safe destination for tourists?

Nazca is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any tourist destination, visitors should take necessary precautions. The city has seen a decrease in crime in recent years, but theft and pickpocketing can still occur in busy areas. It is recommended that tourists keep an eye on their belongings and avoid displaying expensive items, such as jewelry or cameras, in public areas. Visitors should also be cautious when traveling at night and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas. Additionally, it is always a good idea to follow the advice of local authorities and travel with a reputable tour company.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nazca.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nazca the most?

Nazca in Peru is a destination that can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. However, it is mostly popular among those interested in historical and archaeological sites. Additionally, the area is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes making it attractive to adventure seekers. Therefore, Nazca is perfect for families with children interested in learning more about ancient cultures and history. Couples looking for a quieter experience and interested in stargazing can also enjoy the area. Nazca can also be a great place for solo travelers or groups of friends looking for a unique adventure with outdoor activities such as hiking, sandboarding, and biking. Overall, Nazca offers something for everyone and can be an exciting and memorable experience regardless of your travel style.

How to get around Nazca

The most common way to move around Nazca is by using a taxi or hiring a tour guide including transportation. There are also shared taxis and buses available for longer distances. Some travelers also rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore the town and nearby attractions. Keep in mind that if you plan to visit the Nazca Lines, it's usually recommended to book a guided tour which includes transportation as well.

What to see around Nazca

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Nazca, Peru: 1. Chauchilla Cemetery - an ancient burial ground with well-preserved mummies and artifacts.
2. Cahuachi Pyramids - a complex of adobe pyramids and ceremonial buildings dating back to the pre-Columbian era.
3. The Nazca Lines - a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of vast, ancient geoglyphs etched into the desert floor.
4. Aqueducts of Cantalloc - an impressive system of underground aqueducts used by the Nazca people to transport water from the Andes to their desert valley homes.
5. Maria Reiche Park - a museum dedicated to the life and work of the German archaeologist who devoted her life to studying and preserving the Nazca Lines.
6. Cantalloc Underground Wells - a series of circular wells built by the Nazca people over a thousand years ago to access water from underground aquifers.
7. Huacachina Oasis - a beautiful desert oasis situated around a natural lagoon and surrounded by sand dunes, perfect for sandboarding and dune buggy tours.
8. Puquios de Nasca - a complex system of ancient underground aqueducts built by the Nazca people to transport water to their crops in the desert valley.
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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